Royalties for Regions Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 Ord-East Kimberley (Source DRD) Contents
Minister’s Message...... 2 Appendices...... 177 Acronyms and Abbreviations...... 286 Director General’s Message...... 3 Appendix 1: Exploration Incentive Acknowledgements...... 287 Scheme (EIS)...... 180 Introduction...... 5 Contact Details...... 288 Appendix 2: Regional Events Program Royalties for Regions Act 2009...... 7 and Regional Events Scheme...... 183 Index...... 289 The Department’s Role...... 7 Appendix 3: Regional Natural Resource Royalties for Regions Principles...... 8 Management...... 185 The Western Australian Regional Appendix 4: Mid West Investment Plan...... 186 Development Trust...... 9 Appendix 5: SuperTowns Development Royalties for Regions 12-month snapshot....10 Fund...... 186 Royalties for Regions Funding Allocation Appendix 6: Regional Airports 2012-13...... 18 Development Scheme (RADS)...... 187 Funding Initiatives...... 18 Appendix 7: Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS)...... 191 Country Local Government Fund...... 20 Regional Community Services Fund...... 22 Appendix 8: Regional Grants Scheme...... 194 Regional Infrastructure and Headworks Appendix 9: Pilbara Cities Initiative...... 227 Fund...... 52 Appendix 10: Pilbara Water New Regional and State-wide Initiatives....103 Opportunities...... 229 Regional Development Fund...... 104 Appendix 11: Country Local Government Royalties for Regions Expenditure by Fund – Individual Local Government...... 229 Regions 2012-13...... 105 Appendix 12: Country Local Government Royalties for Regions Disbursement and Fund – Regional Groups...... 268 Expenditure 2012-13...... 139 Appendix 13: Grants Register Financial outline ...... 175 2008‑2013...... 271
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 1 Minister’s Message
Royalties for Regions continues to deliver As the focus of Royalties for Regions investment moves to more strategic for regional WA. regionally significant projects, Royalties for Regions will drive the economic investment that supports local jobs and creates long-term growth in Through Royalties for Regions, regional communities. 25 per cent of the State’s mining and onshore petroleum royalties are I acknowledge the work of the Department of Regional Development, being returned to regional areas as an the Western Australian Regional Development Trust and the Regional investment in projects, infrastructure Development Council for their oversight and implementation of this and services. Since the program started program. I also acknowledge the outstanding contribution of the nine in 2008, Royalties for Regions has Regional Development Commissions and their dedicated staff for their allocated more than $4.2 billion to over community leadership. 3,500 regional development projects After five years of unprecedented investment, Royalties for Regions is across the state. making regional Western Australia a better place to live, work and invest. Royalties for Regions is addressing Now, we are building on this investment to further transform our regions, significant shortfalls in infrastructure create vibrant communities and drive economic growth. and services across WA. In 2012-13, Royalties for Regions expenditure on regional projects amounted to more than $1 billion. Such investment is vital Hon Brendon Grylls MLA as it leverages funding from private sector and other government sources, Minister for Regional Development; Lands further boosting total investment in regional WA. This Royalties for Regions Progress Report highlights the range of projects underway across the state. Regional health and education have received major investment through the Regional Schools Plan, Southern Inland Health Initiative and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
2 Director General’s Message
I am pleased to present the 2012‑13 Its role is to build and deliver opportunities, facilities and services Royalties for Regions Progress Report. appropriate to the needs of people living in the regions. I am impressed by the number Many of the projects and initiatives outlined in this report are not only of projects developed as a result providing long term, sustainable benefits to residents in rural and remote of Royalties for Regions funding, communities, but are also making them attractive and viable alternatives which are ultimately improving the to metropolitan centres. lives of Western Australians who It is encouraging to see a number of regional centres being transformed live, work, invest and visit regional as a direct result of regional revitalisation and planning initiatives receiving Western Australia. Royalties for Regions funding. These projects are delivering a range of Extraordinary progress has been made benefits to communities throughout the state. over the past five years. During this time, The department’s achievements are made possible through the hard work the number of projects and initiatives and effort of DRD’s staff. I would like to thank them for their commitment that have received Royalties for Regions and dedication. Together we have set strong foundations as we work funding has grown beyond 3,500. together to drive change throughout regional Western Australia. These achievements could not have been accomplished without the Moving forward into the future, I am energised by the Government’s contributions of the Western Australian Regional Development Trust, new focus on economic diversification in regional Western Australia. Regional Development Council, Regional Development Commissions, This represents a new opportunity for investment and growth in other State Government agencies and local governments. regional communities. Examples of the positive impacts that Royalties for Regions is having are Paul Rosair highlighted by the case studies and testimonials included throughout Director General the report. Department of Regional Development The Department of Regional Development (DRD) (formerly Department of Regional Development and Lands) has an agenda to develop thriving towns and communities in regional Western Australia.
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 3 Explanatory notes This report provides details of projects approved and funds disbursed in 2012-13. Expenditure of financials are unaudited. It is as reported by recipients of funding as 30 August 2013.
4 Introduction
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 5 Canola fields, Wheatbelt region Introduction Photograph courtesy of Chris Morris
Royalties for Regions is an historic agreement launched in December 2008 that underpins the State Government’s long-term focus on regional development throughout Western Australia. Through Royalties for Regions, the equivalent of 25 per cent of the State’s mining and onshore petroleum royalties are returned to Western Australia’s regional areas each year. Each financial year, the Treasurer is to credit to the Royalties for Regions Fund an amount equal to 25 per cent of the forecast royalty income for the financial year. The amount allocated in 2012-13 was $1.22 billion (25 per cent of forecast royalty revenue of $4.87 billion for 2012-13). The amount budgeted to be expended in 2012-13 is $1.07 billion. The Royalties for Regions program continues to provide a framework to support and maintain strong and vibrant regions by funding improved infrastructure and headworks, enabling across-government strategic regional and community services projects, and providing contestable grant funding. Royalties for Regions focuses on delivering benefits to regional areas through six policy objectives: Building capacity in regional communities Retaining benefits in regional communities Improving services to regional communities Attaining sustainability Expanding opportunity Growing prosperity.
6 Royalties for Regions Act 2009 The Department’s Role The Royalties for Regions Act 2009 (Act) was proclaimed on The Department of Regional Development’s Regional Investment Division, 27 March 2010, and provides for the establishment and operation on behalf of the State Government, is responsible for administering the of the Royalties for Regions Fund (Fund). Royalties for Regions program. The objective of the Act is to promote and facilitate economic, business In line with the Royalties for Regions principles, the division works and social development in regional Western Australia through the operation closely with other organisations to implement Royalties for Regions of the Fund. Prior to the establishment of the Royalties for Regions initiatives. They include the State’s nine Regional Development legislation, the Fund was operated pursuant to section 10(a) of the Commissions, State Government agencies, communities, businesses and Financial Management Act 2006. industry, community resource centres, non-government organisations and local governments. The Fund came into operation on 27 March 2010. At this time Royalties for Regions monies held in the Treasurer’s Special Purpose Account These alliances help ensure there is a strong focus on supporting local were transferred to the Fund’s Special Purpose Account. There are four decision-making for regional expenditure and increase the capacity of local subsidiary accounts of the Fund: the Country Local Government Fund governments (for example, through CLGF), and the Regional Development (CLGF), the Regional Community Services Fund, the Regional Infrastructure Commissions (through the Regional Grants Scheme). and Headworks Fund and the Regional Development Fund. The Act allows for other subsidiary accounts to be created on the recommendation of the Minister for Regional Development. The Act also established the Western Australian Regional Development Trust. Part 3 Western Australian Regional Development Trust and Part 5 Consequential Amendment of the Act were proclaimed on 16 July 2010 and came into operation on 17 July 2010. The Act provides a legislative base for the Royalties for Regions program’s continuing operation.
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 7 Lake Ballard, Menzies Royalties for Regions Principles Photograph courtesy of Lindsay Bridge
The central principles underpinning Royalties for Regions are: Strategic projects in regional Western Australia are a priority Local decision-making in regional areas is fundamental State Government department administration and processes should provide for and support decision-making in regional areas.
8 The Western Australian Regional Development Trust The Western Australian Regional Development Trust (the Trust), is an independent statutory advisory body established under the Royalties for Regions Act that provides advice on the Fund to the Minister for Regional Development. The Trust plays an important role in providing high-level independent and impartial advice. It makes recommendations on the allocation of funds from the Fund, and in the management of the Fund in order to promote and facilitate economic, business and social development in regional Western Australia. The work of the Trust affects the way in which the Department of Regional Development (DRD), and the Minister develop and administer Royalties for Regions policy and projects. The Trust regularly visits the regions and consults widely with individual agencies and entities concerned with regional development and Royalties for Regions projects. The Trust was established in July 2010. Appointments to the Trust are made by the Minister. The Trust membership was renewed in June 2013 as follows:
Position Expires Andrew Murray Chair 7 June 2016 Sue Middleton Deputy Chair 7 June 2016 Paul Rosair Member 7 June 2016 Tim Shanahan Member 7 June 2016 Peter Rundle Member 27 February 2014
The Trust formally meets bi-monthly and on other occasions as required. Front row, left to right: Andrew Murray (Chair), Sue Middleton (Deputy Chair) Back row, left to right: Paul Rosair (Trust Member), Peter Rundle (Trust Member), DRD provides the Trust with the support necessary to perform its functions. Tim Shanahan (Trust Member)
Further information on the Trust can be found at www.wardt.wa.gov.au. WA Regional Development Trust Members (Source DRD) Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 9 Royalties for Regions 12-month snapshot JULY 2012
3rd 17th 23rd 25th WA Country Racing Cups 2012 Shinju Matsuri Festival Three year funding support Augusta Boat Harbour receive funding boost in Broome approved for the North West Festival in contract awarded Port Hedland Stage 1 of the Living Lakes initiative completed
AUGUST 2012
4th 6th 9th 24th Service workers’ houses Funding for Albany ANZAC Rapid response to Pilbara’s Funding for Broome’s premier arrive in Hedland Centenary commemoration industrial growth cultural event provided approved Funding for EON Thriving Communities Program (Action agenda)
10 SEPTEMBER 2012
4th 24th 26th 28th Construction starts on $7.9 million of Regional Top-class tennis served up in AFL Masters WA Football Busselton Health Campus Event Program funding Esperance Carnival in Broome Innovative arts festival brings allocated to a Regional world to Pilbara Tourism Marketing Program to drive domestic leisure visitation in Western Australia
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 11 Royalties for Regions 12-month snapshot OCTOBER 2012
5th 9th 10th Goldfields gets state-of-the-art Funding for regionally based New mobile and internet coverage sports complex athletes to train and compete in Ravensthorpe World-class golf tees off in in regional events 10 mega-watt capacity Greenough Kalgoorlie-Boulder River Solar Farm officially opened
NOVEMBER 2012
1st 9th 12th New facilities for Kalgoorlie Mid West mobile and Margaret River to join surfing Health Campus broadband coverage improved elite
12 20th 21st 25th 29th Boost for Aboriginal art in 70 bed Coral Bay Staff Operator selected Bunbury to Albany Gas the Pilbara Workers Accommodation for Wharncliffe Mill Pipeline corridor unveiled facility opened Naturebank site
22nd 24th 27th Warmun Garden for the Push to provide employees’ Royalties for Regions funding helps secure the Men’s EON Thriving Communities housing in Newman and Women’s World Championship Tour surfing events in Program opened Margaret River from 2014 to 2017 Gourmet Escape held in Margaret River The State Government approves $6 million Royalties for Regions GDP allocation for the Exmouth CBD Revitalisation and Foreshore Development Stage 2. Total project cost is $9.54 million Ground breaking ceremony to mark commencement of works for the Carnarvon Stage 2 Flood Mitigation project. A $60 million project funded by the Commonwealth and State Government. Royalties for Regions is contributing $45 million
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 13 Royalties for Regions 12-month snapshot DECEMBER 2012
5th 8th 10th 14th South Hedland commuters Manjimup celebrates annual Additional 125 service New aged-care facilities for to get road bridge cherry festival worker dwellings for Hedland Roebourne Expansion approved for Moora Frail Aged Lodge Inc.
JANUARY 2013
8th 17th 20th Geraldton roads, airport and New residential land released Mount Barker celebrates wine railway station funded in Broome and racing
14 15th 19th 20th Shark Bay Community Upgrade for Albany recreation New community centre for Lancelin Sport and Recreation facilities Gamex fishing tournament in Exmouth, 2013 Cinefest Oz and Centre opened Taste Great Southern all receive funding support State Government approves supplementary funding of $0.5 million for the Carnarvon Library and Art Centre project State Government approves $42.6 million funding to provide additional infrastructure at seven regional public schools, and facilitate relocating Year 7 students to a secondary school setting
21st 25th 30th Ten dwellings for Newman Pilbara classrooms to expand $10 million coronary care unit opened service workers with E-learning in Bunbury Funding approved for 2013 and 2014 Shinju Matsuri Festival
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 15 Royalties for Regions 12-month snapshot FEBRUARY 2013
5th 12th $10 million seawater pipeline Dunsborough Foreshore Revitalisation completed to support Pilbara expansion More retail and service land for Newman Housing development for 820km upgrade of the State Barrier Fence completed elderly Pilbara Aboriginals Price collection for the 2013 Regional Price Index commenced Construction works commence on the new Carnarvon Police and Justice complex. Royalties for Regions contributed $9.5 million to this major infrastructure project Works commence on the Gascoyne Junction Town Centre Rebuilding and Revitalisation project
MARCH 2013
5th 26th Construction on the new Construction begins on the new Kununurra Courthouse Roebourne Work Camp begins Airborne Electromagnetic survey (AEM survey) to chart groundwater and soils of Carnarvon’s horticulture precinct commences as part of the Gascoyne Foodbowl initiative
16 APRIL 2013
19th 26th New reefs reeling in South Housing for GPs in Port Hedland West recreational fishermen Official opening of new Clontarf Academy at Coodanup Community College in Mandurah Commencement of the Living in the Regions 2013 survey Department of Transport secured consultants for PortLink Intermodal Terminal and Road/Rail Realignment feasibility studies AEM surveys conducted in March and April in the South West, Albany and Esperance providing invaluable information for the Regional Water Availability, Planning and Investigation project MAY 2013
1st 2nd Seven local governments in the Wheatbelt granted funding Drift film released in cinemas for Storm Water Reuse projects The Living Lake Stage 2 Tender advertised JUNE
Launch of Koorda Telstra Mobile An additional three new Kimberley West Road Seniors Housing project Base Station ambulances to be based at Derby, in Capel completed with all 17 units Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing being leased and occupied delivered – making a total of five of the seven scheduled to arrive Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 17 Royalties for Regions Funding Allocation 2012-13
Total budgeted across sub funds – $1.07 billion Funding Initiatives
New Regional and State-wide Initiatives Royalties for Regions operates under three funds: $12.4 million The Country Local Government Fund
Country Local Government Fund The Regional Community Services Fund $76.4 million The Regional Infrastructure and Headworks Fund.
The following represents allocation to the three funds in 2012-13.
The Country Local Government Fund The Country Local Government Fund (CLGF) supports local governments in the nine regions as defined in the Regional Development Commissions Act 1993. An amount of $71.5 million was disbursed through CLGF in 2012-13. The primary objective of the CLGF is to address infrastructure needs across the country local government sector.
The Regional Community Services Fund In 2012-13, $204.5 million was disbursed to support priority services Regional Community Services Fund that have shown their effectiveness in enhancing the quality of life $250.4 million for residents in regional areas, and improving access to government Regional Infrastructure services and infrastructure. The fund aims to support investment in and Headworks Fund $730.8 million regional Western Australia and help leverage investment from other sources for projects that will contribute to the development of services in regional areas.
Source: Outlines the three funds and the new State-wide initiatives as per 2012-13 Budget papers.
18 The Regional Infrastructure and Headworks Fund In 2012-13, $493.4 million was disbursed to support large-scale, strategic regional infrastructure and headworks projects acknowledged as being of strategic importance to Western Australia. The fund aims to support strong investment in regional Western Australia, and help leverage investment from other sources for projects that will contribute to the development of regional infrastructure and headworks. It also supports planning for infrastructure at the regional level, and encourages the development of infrastructure projects that benefit local organisations and communities.
The New Regional and State-wide Initiatives In 2012-13, $12.4 million was disbursed to support the administration of the Royalties for Regions Fund.
Regional Development Fund In 2012, a fourth fund known as the Regional Development Fund (RDF) was created during the 2012-13 Budget process. The aim of the RDF is to fund major strategic initiatives aligned with the Royalties for Regions budget themes, and to implement significant infrastructure projects that currently have planning works funded through Royalties for Regions. The RDF holds unallocated revenue not brought to the expenditure side of the budget until the planning for these projects is complete and approved by the Minister for Regional Development and Cabinet.
Aerial View Albany Health Campus (Source DRD) Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 19 Country Local Government Fund Regional Groups/Regional Development Commissions A total of $41.4 million was allocated in 2012-13 to regional groups of The primary objective of the CLGF is to address infrastructure needs across country local governments in the nine regions, to invest in regionally the country local government sector. significant infrastructure projects developed with the support of Regional CLGF’s overall aims are to: Development Commissions. Provision of adequate business cases for each regional priority infrastructure project put forward was a prerequisite to Address infrastructure needs and support capacity building access the regional component of CLGF in 2012-13. Improve the financial sustainability of country local governments in Western Australia through improved asset management For a complete list of CLGF regional groupings projects funded in 2012-13, see Appendix 12. Provide financial assistance to country local governments which choose to amalgamate voluntarily Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $23.4 million Assist groups of country local governments to fund regionally significant Department of Local Government infrastructure projects. The Department of Local Government was provided with $3.1 million to CLGF supports local government in the nine regions defined in the deliver complementary capacity building initiatives in 2012-13, with a Regional Development Commissions Act 1993. An amount of $76.4 million particular focus on strategic and asset management planning. was made available through CLGF in 2012-13 as follows: Total Approved Amount: $18.8 million Local Governments An amount of $33.9 million was provided to individual country local governments towards the cost of implementing their forward capital works plans. For a complete list of CLGF local government individual projects, see Appendix 11. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $47.4 million
Bowling green at Kellerberrin Recreation and Leisure Centre (funded by CLGF) 20 Photograph courtesy of the Shire of Kellerberrin Dryandra Regional Equestrian Centre Photograph courtesy of Shire of Cuballing
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 21 Regional Community Services Fund Regional Community Programs and Schemes The Regional Community Services Fund (Fund) has been established Country Age Pension Fuel Card to improve access to services in the regions. It supports services that have The Country Age Pension Fuel Card Scheme (CAPFC) provides eligible been shown to be effective in enhancing the quality of life for residents pensioners in regional Western Australia with $500 a year towards the cost in regional areas. of fuel and/or taxi travel from participating providers. Regional pensioners live on modest, fixed incomes and generally do not have access to extensive The Fund aims to: public transport services. This means that they must rely more on private Assist regional communities achieve improved access to a range vehicles or taxis to attend appointments, go shopping, or visit family and of community services friends. The CAPFC provides support for the transport needs of over 45,000 Assist regional communities overcome disadvantages caused pensioners living in regional areas. by remoteness The $23.1 million commitment in 2012-13 has seen the continued support Attract and retain essential regional government employees. for recipients of Centrelink Age Pension, Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension, Wife Pension or Widow B Pension or Department of Veterans’ As well as funding a range of individual projects, the Regional Community Affairs Service Pension, Social Security Age Pension or Income Support Services Fund includes an annual allocation for the Regional Grants Supplement. Scheme (RGS). The CAPFC will be issued automatically every financial year providing the The money in RGS is for community, public and private organisations to recipient remains eligible. improve and develop infrastructure and services in the regions. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $22.6 million Western Australia’s nine Regional Development Commissions administer RGS, including assessing applications and determining grants. Funded Agent: Department of Transport For a complete list of successful Small Grant Scheme and Strategic Project grant applicants for each Regional Development Commission, see Appendix 8.
22 Regional Workers Incentives Scheme What are the strengths of a region and how happy are people living there? The Regional Workers Incentives Scheme provides for an increased district What are the barriers people perceive as preventing them moving allowance for public sector workers in regional Western Australia. This forms to a region? part of the process to attract and retain public sector workers, who provide Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.12 million essential government services. Funded Agent: Department of Regional Development There are approximately 10,000 public sector employees currently eligible for the district allowance. Royalties for Regions provided $52.3 million Boarding Away from Home Allowance towards the district allowance in 2012-13, with additional annual amounts The Boarding Away from Home Allowance (BAHA) is made available each provided for in the forward estimates to 2015-16. year to families with children attending a primary school, secondary school The methodology for calculation and adjustment of the district allowance or respite care centres. BAHA is only available to residents of Western is based on a comprehensive regional price index which ensures that Australia who have qualified for the Commonwealth Government Assistance district allowance rates remain relevant and provide fair and reasonable for Isolated Children (AIC) Boarding Allowance or Second Home compensation for regional employees. Allowance, which is available from Centrelink. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $52.1 million BAHA provides parents in remote locations whose children have to leave home to attend secondary schooling with funding to assist with boarding Funded Agent: Department of Regional Development expenses. Royalties for Regions funding has been allocated to support an Living in the Regions increase to BAHA by contributing up to $785 per student per school year on a pro-rata basis over four years. The Living in the Regions 2013 survey collected information from over 10,000 regional Western Australians on why they live in the regions, why Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.6 million they might consider moving and their perceptions of quality of life. A similar Funded Agent: Department of Education metropolitan focused survey also looked at knowledge of the regions and what metropolitan people see as attractive about living in regional Western Australia. The information from the survey will be used to answer the big questions such as: How can we attract people to, and retain people in, regional areas? What are the ‘sense of wellbeing’ factors that influence people’s decisions on where to live?
Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 23 Community Resource Centres The Western Australian Community Resource Centre (CRC) Network Cocos (K) Islands Wyndham comprises over 100 Community Resource Centres (CRCs), located in Kununurra regional communities across the state. The network builds on one of
Djarindjin Western Australia’s longest running and most successful regional community Warmun Mowanjum programs, the Telecentre program. Broome
Jarlmadangah Burru Looma Noonkanbah The CRCs provide comprehensive education and training sessions that Bidyadanga Ringer Soak
Yakanarra create pathways to employment for regional people, in addition to existing Billiluna services that include access to computers and high speed internet and Balgo
government information referral services. Roebourne
The Network has been developed to reflect the expanded role and service Marble Bar
delivery function for the 106 individual member centres. Onslow Nullagine Recently, Internet Protocol (IP) video conferencing has been introduced into all CRCs. In the past, only Telecentres that had access to ISDN
Telephony could participate in video conferences (about 75 per cent of Burringurrah the network). IP video conferencing will allow all CRCs to have access to video conferencing services through the internet using their current Gascoyne Junction Irrunytju broadband connection. Shark Bay Meekatharra
Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $8.2 million Cue Kalbarri Leinster Funded Agent: Department of Regional Development Mullewa
Mingenew Laverton Dongara Morawa Leonora Perenjori Dalwallinu Leeman Beacon Coorow Kalannie Koorda Jurien Bay Moora Wongan Hills Bencubbin Menzies Dandaragan Mukinbudin Dowerin Tjuntjuntjara Goomalling Nungarin Lancelin Wyalkatchem Gingin Toodyay Westonia Coolgardie Cunderdin Southern Cross Wundowie York Merredin Kambalda Perth Kellerberrin Beverley Bruce Rock Serpentine/Jarrahdale Quairading Narembeen Corrigin Norseman Pinjarra Brookton Kondinin Hyden Brunswick Boddington Pingelly Waroona Kulin Newdegate Yarloop Wandering Wickepin Lake Grace Harvey Williams Wagin Pingrup Ravensthorpe West Arthur Katanning Donnybrook Ongerup Hopetoun Kojonup Jerramungup Greenbushes Gnowangerup Bremer Bay Boyup Brook Tambellup Wellstead Nannup Bridgetown Frankland River Augusta Manjimup Pemberton Mount Barker Northcliffe Denmark Walpole
Source: DRD – Community Development Division 24 Wild Dogs Management Plan Foodbank Western Australia School Breakfast Program Wild dog numbers have increased dramatically in the southern rangelands Foodbank Western Australia is a non-denominational, charitable and eastern agricultural regions of Western Australia since the early 1990s. organisation which sources donated and surplus foods from the food and This increase has had a significant impact on primary producers and local grocery industry to distribute to welfare and community agencies that communities both economically and socially. provide food assistance to people in need. Royalties for Regions funding is being provided to increase the number The Expansion of the Foodbank Western Australia School Breakfast of doggers engaged in implementing wild dog management controls from Program (SBP) and Services into Regional Locations project expands the 12 to 20 in strategic locations identified in consultation with industry in the Foodbank WA SBP into targeted schools in remote and regional areas of southern rangelands and eastern agricultural regions. Western Australia. The program targets schools with a low Socio-Economic Index (SEI) ranking. This project, in conjunction with the Natural Resource Management – State Barrier Fence project, will enable landholders to establish enhanced Evaluation reports demonstrate improved attendance, academic control operations and better wild dog management into the future. outcomes and behaviour by a large majority of participating students. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.42 million The Foodbank WA SBP commenced in 2001 with 11 schools. In 2010‑11, Funded Agent: Department of Agriculture and Food WA $780,000 of Royalties for Regions funding was allocated over four years to expand the program into regional locations. By the end of the Performing Arts Companies Tours to the Regions Boost 2012 academic year, the program had registered 239 regional schools. Royalties for Regions is providing $1 million over four years to provide Across these regional schools the program provided 29,241 breakfasts regional communities with access to performing arts touring and free of charge. simulcast opportunities delivered through the State Government’s Westlink Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.19 million satellite network. These funds assist to invigorate and build on existing arts Department of Education and cultural activities in regional communities. Funded Agent: Through the development of a skills training package and increasing the number of performing arts shows by small to medium sized companies and independent producers, these funds aim to enhance opportunities for regional communities to experience live performances. The initiatives assist to address the issue of inequitable access by some regions, particularly the more isolated communities, to touring by smaller performing arts companies. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.12 million Funded Agent: Perth Theatre Trust Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 25 Better Beginnings – Early Literacy Responsible Parenting Services in Regional Western Australia Better Beginnings builds on a parent’s role as their child’s first teacher by The Responsible Parenting, Parent Support Service was established providing high-quality literacy materials and nurturing settings to create in 2004 to address community concern regarding children involved in positive first experiences around books and language. truanting, anti-social and criminal behaviour by supporting the parents of these children. The Parent Support Service is also one of the key programs The program’s objectives are to: operated by the Department for Child Protection (DCP) to prevent children Introduce children to developmentally appropriate books and entering the care system. language activities Responsible Parenting Services comprises home visiting services, Support parents as their child’s first teacher in modelling early and support and advice to at risk families with older children, literacy practices babies and toddlers. Raise awareness of the value and pleasure of reading and sharing stories DCP is funded for this program in the metropolitan area, Peel and Kimberley with children regions. The regional expansion program commenced in 2010-11 and Link families to the resources and services that libraries offer people continues to roll out into the Murchison, Great Southern, Goldfields, Pilbara, of all ages. Wheatbelt and South West regions. Operational teams are now available and There are strong links between literacy, school performance, self-esteem working in all districts, engaging with the community, accepting referrals and life chances. Poor literacy skills are linked with lower education, and providing casework services. earnings, health and social outcomes, as well as high unemployment, Total Royalties for Regions funding of $27.9 million from 2010-11 welfare dependence, and teenage parenting. to 2014‑15 is provided for Responsible Parenting Services in regional Better Beginnings is receiving $2.8 million from 2010-11 to 2013-14, Western Australia with $7.8 million expended in 2012-13. to improve literacy levels in young children through fostering a love of books Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $4.99 million and language, leading to increased opportunities for success at school and Funded Agent: Department for Child Protection future employment. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.72 million Funded Agent: Department of Culture and the Arts
26 Geraldton Residential Rehabilitation Facility Orange School Buses Initiatives in Regional Western Australia To purchase a property suitable to offer therapeutic community services The State Government recognises the need to improve conditions to the Mid West, $2 million has been allocated to Drug Arm (WA) Inc. for regional students travelling long distances to access education. The property will be easily accessible from Geraldton by car, feature A $10.9 million program over 2010-11 to 2013-14, is provided to upgrade separate residential areas for a staged progression of treatment and have the regional school bus network to ensure that new buses are equipped with the capacity for at least 20 beds. air conditioning and automatic transmission. The existing property in Geraldton, Rosella House, will continue to be This is not only making the journey more comfortable for drivers and used in the rehabilitation process but will be utilised for supported students, but along with the standardisation of automatic transmissions, accommodation, in combination with the therapeutic community. should greatly facilitate driver retention and recruitment, especially in small rural towns which do not have large labour forces. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $2 million Funded Agent: Drug Arm (WA) Inc. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $3.29 million Funded Agent: Public Transport Authority Rangelands Reform Program The $2.28 million Rangelands Reform Program, supported by Royalties for Regions, will address long-standing problems faced by our pastoral industry. The outcomes will include better support for pastoralists who wish to diversify their land use. A key action is to amend the Land Administration Act 1997 (LAA) to provide options for new forms of tenure, such as a rangelands lease to allow for broad-scale and varied uses provided the use is consistent with the preservation and management of the rangelands. A report containing recommendations for the sustainable development of the rangelands has been completed by consultants commissioned by the Department of Agriculture and Food WA. The Department of Regional Development worked with the Pastoral Lands Board to identify ways of streamlining government processes impacting on pastoral diversification. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.58 million Funded Agent: Department of Regional Development
Orange School Bus (Source DRD) Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 27 Exploration Incentive Scheme Regional Buy Local Initiatives An estimated $13.3 million has been expended on this program in In 2012-13, $1 million has been provided to establish programs which will 2012-13. The Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS) aims to encourage build the capacity of regional small businesses and industry, assisting to exploration in Western Australia for the long-term sustainability of the State’s create a regional environment that is both viable and sustainable, leading to resources sector. The EIS will reinforce the image of Western Australia as an long-term growth and resilience in fluctuating economic conditions. attractive destination for mineral and energy exploration investment. Initiatives include equipping businesses with the knowledge and capability The EIS comprises six separate programs: to access government and resource project markets and increasing 1. Exploration and environmental coordination in DMP local community support of local retail businesses through improved business practices. 2. Innovative drilling 3. Geographic and geochemical surveys Programs that address these issues are being developed and delivered by the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) and the Department 4. 3D geological mapping of Commerce (Commerce). 5. Promoting strategic research with industry SBDC delivered workshops focusing on tendering for government and other 6. Sustainable working relations with Aboriginal communities. contracts and customer service workshops, with a special focus on working For a complete list of EIS funded projects, see Appendix 1. with the SuperTowns in Katanning and Margaret River. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $12.53 million Commerce has delivered small business information sessions and Funded Agent: Department of Mines and Petroleum undertook visits to work with regional businesses in Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Albany and Collie. As part of this overall initiative, nine visits to regional Public Sector Regional Leadership locations were undertaken to support industry through the Industry The Public Sector Commission has responsibility for setting and monitoring Facilitation and Support Program. public sector standards and codes of ethics, as well as oversight of matters Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.9 million of effectiveness and efficiency in the public sector as a whole. More than Funded Agent: Department of Commerce and Small Business $2.4 million of Royalties for Regions funding has been provided over four Development Corporation years to support the implementation of a package of Public Sector Regional Leadership and Workforce initiatives to assist the public sector with building capacity and capability in regional areas. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.39 million Funded Agent: Public Sector Commission
28 Regional Events Program Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy To facilitate the development and raise the profile of regional events in To assist with the implementation of the tourism initiatives identified in the Western Australia, $12 million was allocated in 2012-13 as part of a Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy, $6.9 million is provided. $47.9 million program from 2011-12 to 2014-15. The program aims to The program will specifically: deliver economic and community benefits to regional communities as well as generate national and international promotion of regional Western Australia. Identify and develop nature-based and cultural tourism Develop and promote tourism corridors To attract further tourism to regional Western Australia, a total of $7.9 million of Regional Events Program (REP) funding was allocated to a Regional Expand and promote the Kimberley Aerial Highway and develop and Tourism Marketing Program aimed at further driving domestic leisure promote self-drive journeys including 4WD expedition routes. visitation to regional Western Australia. The funding for the Regional To deliver the tourism infrastructure requirements of the Kimberley Science Event Program and Regional Tourism Marketing Program is administered and Conservation Strategy, $3.1 million is allocated to the Department of by Tourism Western Australia. Parks and Wildlife. For a complete list of successful REP funded projects, see Appendix 2. To deliver on the tourism requirements of the Kimberley Science and Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $11.46 million Conservation Strategy, $3.8 million of the operating funding is allocated over Funded Agent: Tourism Western Australia four years to Tourism Western Australia. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $1.23 million Funded Agent: Department of Parks and Wildlife Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $0.67 million Funded Agent: Tourism Western Australia
Country Music Festival – Regional Events Scheme, Boyup Brook, South West Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 29 (Source DRD) South West Recreational Fishing Enhancement Pilot Project Funding of $1.86 million has been made available over four years to be used to design, install and monitor two purpose-built artificial reef structures in the South West region. The reefs were installed during 2012-13 near Bunbury and Quindalup. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $1.4 million Funded Agent: Department of Fisheries Marine Parks Management An amount of $14.3 million will be expended over five years from 2012-13 to 2016-17 for the establishment of two new marine parks in the South West (Capes Marine Park) and Pilbara (Dampier Archipelago). The funding will be provided to the Department of Parks and Wildlife ($11 million) and the Department of Fisheries ($3.3 million). The funding will allow for: Establishment of the two new parks and a new management area and their associated management plans by the end of 2011-12 Protection and conservation of high natural and cultural values, while providing opportunities for recreational and commercial uses Establishment of visitor facilities and management arrangements to contribute to nature-based recreation and tourism in the reserves; provide education and information to visitors and provide opportunities for Aboriginal engagement.
Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $1.09 million Funded Agent: Department of Fisheries Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $1.25 million Funded Agent: Department of Parks and Wildlife
Hamlin Bay South West 30 Photo courtesy of Lindsay Bridge Support for Racecourse Infrastructure Grants Program Dunsborough Foreshore Enhancement The racing industry is an important contributor to the State’s economy. Royalties for Regions allocated $3.6 million for the enhancement of The future development and sustainability of the industry and its associated the Dunsborough Foreshore. The project will improve the pedestrian economic and social benefits are largely dependent on establishing or linkage and visual corridor between the Dunsborough town centre and improving infrastructure at race clubs to ensure facilities meet occupational the Foreshore. health and safety standards, licensing requirements and the expectations It will enhance the Dunsborough Foreshore as a destination, and not just of patrons. part of the tourist’s journey, while increasing the economic growth of the A total of $6.6 million of Royalties for Regions funding has been allocated Dunsborough town centre. This will ultimately generate more employment, over three years to match Racecourse Infrastructure Grants Program as well as add to the recreational, cultural, social and economic funding that is approved for projects at regional racecourses by the opportunities for the town. Minister for Racing and Gaming. This will provide regional racing clubs Total Approved Amount: $3.6 million with access to the partnership funding required to undertake and complete major regional infrastructure projects that are critical to the conduct of Funded Agent: City of Busselton racing and training activities at those clubs. Disbursement Amount 2012-13: $1.2 million Funded Agent: Racing and Wagering Western Australia Eastern Breakwater Precinct The objective of the Eastern Breakwater Precinct project is to integrate an otherwise isolated semi-industrial and brown-field site into a vibrant precinct – allowing the City of Greater Geraldton to further enhance and extend the iconic Geraldton Foreshore. The project will add value to this underutilised precinct, increase connectivity to other amenity precincts, reduce pressure on existing amenities and raise the profile of Geraldton and the Mid West region. Total Approved Amount: $2.2 million Funded Agent: City of Greater Geraldton
Seymour Park Dunsborough (Source DRD) Progress Report July 2012 – June 2013 31 Case study
Better Beginnings Mandurah Better Beginnings is a State Library of Western Australia initiative which is funded by the State Government and delivered by Western Australian local governments. The project has received Royalties for Regions funding of $2.8 million. In 2004, the City of Mandurah joined the pilot program for children aged zero to four years. In the past eight years reading packs have been provided to all new babies born in the region. The City of Mandurah library receives the Better Beginnings packs and they are distributed by the child healthcare nurses to new mums and babies. Before Better Beginnings, there was no formal program to introduce reading to new babies. The Better Beginning program was extended in 2010 to kindergarten and pre-primary children. City of Mandurah staff and councillors were deligh